F-Series additions from Volvo
NEW engines, transmissions and cabs are just some of the highlights of the latest L60F, L70F and L90F general-purpose wheel loaders from Volvo Construction Equipment. The three medium-duty machines complete the company’s F-Series wheel loader line-up and are said to offer more manoeuvrability, power, productivity, flexibility, reliability, comfort and safety than their predecessors.
Volvo say the three new machines, which have operating weights of 12, 14 and 16 tonnes respectively, will be available in the UK around April, although the entire 11-model range will not be fully on stream until the autumn.
In what is a essentially an upgraded generation of machines, the F Series improves on the E Series it replaces in several ways. For example, the new models feature a 5.7-litre, six-cylinder D6E engine featuring Volvo Advanced Combustion Technology (V-ACT). This Tier III/Stage 3 low-emission engine delivers high torque at just above tick over, giving the new loaders powerful rimpull and low fuel consumption. Across the three new machines, this new engine provides between 6% and 13% more power, and up to 15% more torque than the units it replaces, resulting in better pile penetration and fuller buckets.
Engine power is converted into work via a new smooth-shifting electric-hydraulic HTE transmission. The operator simply selects forward or reverse, whereupon the Volvo Full Automatic Power Shift (FAPS) takes over and selects which of the four forward and four reverse gears is required, as well as the optimum moment to change ratio. The system is independent of both machine and engine speed. In addition, new software in the ECU adapts to the operator’s style of driving, optimizing gear changing parameters and saving fuel by always selecting the appropriate gear. For improved operator comfort, oil-filled clutches and a pulse-width modulation valve in the transmission allow smoother shifting and minimize jolting during gear changes.
The L60F, L70F and L90F retain the all-hydraulic, circulation-cooled, dual-circuit disc brakes that featured on the E-Series generation of wheel loaders. The on-board Contronics monitoring system automatically performs electronic brake tests and the condition of the brakes can be easily assessed via wear indicators on each of the wheels.
Volvo’s intelligent load-sensing hydraulics distribute power where and when it is needed, regardless of engine speed, while the TP-linkage lift arm provides high levels of breakout torque and parallel movement throughout the entire lifting range. The extra power of the new engine also allows larger buckets to be used (10% larger on the L60F and 4% larger on the L70F). Tip loads are also increased for more stability when loading, and an optional long boom is available for tipping into high-sided trucks. A boom suspension system (BSS) absorbs shocks and reduces bucket spillage when travelling over rough ground.
The new Care Cab on the L60F, L70F and L90F is claimed to be the safest, most comfortable and cleanest operator environment ever made by Volvo CE. The new laminated front windshield is almost 25% larger than on the E Series, which, in conjunction with thinner pillars, gives better all-round visibility. An optional rear-facing camera and remotely controlled door mirrors further improve visibility. Access and egress have also been made safer and easier thanks to a better-shaped and wider opening door and new handrails.
Advanced climate controls also feature highly, with all air passing through double filters and a range of standard and optional air-conditioning, timer cab heating and automatic heat-control systems on offer. Other options include lever-steering Comfort Drive Control and even a single pilot joystick option instead of the conventional steering wheel.
